Adaptations for Autism in Secondary Schools
Autism is a disability that affects a person's ability to effectively communicate with others. According to the Autism Society of America, a 2007 study revealed that approximately 1 in every 150 children in the United States has a form of autism. In order to address the special needs and learning abilities of these students, a variety of adaptations and accommodations can be implemented. According to the IES National Center for Special Education Research, approximately 91 percent of students with autism receive accommodations at the secondary level.
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Additional Time to Complete Work
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One of the most common accommodations given to students with autism is additional time to complete assignments or tests. According to the IES, approximately 50 percent of students with autism receive this accommodation.
Modifications to Assignments
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Often, assignments are modified to cater directly to the needs of a student with autism. This might include creating an assignment that is shorter or altering the standards by which it is graded.
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Learning Supports
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Many students with autism receive direct support from special education teachers or teacher aides. This type of support might include direct monitoring of student's progress, direct instruction in study skills or tutoring.
Technology Aides
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Approximately 57 percent of students with autism receive technology aides. This includes everything from calculators and computers to communications aides and books on tape.
Related Services
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Many of these students receive related services such as speech-language pathology, physical or occupational therapy, health services or counseling.
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References
- Photo Credit student image by Dmitri MIkitenko from Fotolia.com
